Crown jewels: The fabulous rings which sealed the love of Europe's royal couples

Royal watchers have been waiting with baited breath for an engagement announcement from Britain's future King, Prince William, since he began dating his pretty girlfriend Kate Middleton eight years ago.

Finally, with the news everyone has been waiting for confirmed by the Palace, the build-up to the wedding of the decade can get underway – but not before the world has been treated to a glimpse of the future Queen's stunning engagement ring.

Poignantly, William chose to give his fiancee the same jewel worn by his late mother, Diana - an enormous 18 carat blue sapphire surrounded by smaller diamonds.

So how does it compare to other royals' sparklers? Here, we take a look at the rocks adorning the hands of some of the world's leading regal beauties...

Royal watchers have been waiting with baited breath for an engagement announcement from Britain's future King, Prince William, since he began dating his pretty girlfriend Kate Middleton eight years ago.

Finally, with the news everyone has been waiting for confirmed by the Palace, the build-up to the wedding of the decade can get underway – but not before the world has been treated to a glimpse of the future Queen's stunning engagement ring.

Poignantly, William chose to give his fiancee the same jewel worn by his late mother, Diana - an enormous 18 carat blue sapphire surrounded by smaller diamonds.

So how does it compare to other royals' sparklers? Here, we take a look at the rocks adorning the hands of some of the world's leading regal beauties...